InterSession #4.2 – “At the Watch-mage’s House”
As Laarus and Bleys made their trek through the narrow streets of New Harbinger towards the local watch-mage's house, the priest noticed his companion's every step betrayed signs of discomfort. Bleys felt a hand press firmly upon his back, as he continued to walk, and heard Laarus' voice clearly call: "May the warmth of Ra's light ease your pain." A sensation of warmth passed through the watch-mage's body, as the last of the bruises from the battle with the lizardfolk faded away.
Oroleniel the Salmon lived in a small cottage tucked behind two large buildings near New Harbinger Gate. The half-elf answered the door with a wide smile. Dwarfed by Bleys, the half-elf had very pale skin with mottled spots of blue-green on his neck. His green hair had yellow highlights, and was very long and worn in one thick braid. His large green eyes opened even more widely in obvious joy at having company. He wore pinkish-orange Academy robes.
"Master Bleys! I am surprised and pleased to have you visit again so soon!"
"Oroleniel, good morn. I had nothing further to attend to until the formal dinner this evening. Not being particularly comfortable imposing upon the hospitality of House Swann, I figured that you might not mind if I found refuge here for a spell. I hope you don't mind but I've brought along a companion of the Charter: Laarus of Ra,” Bleys said, more verbose than Laarus had ever witnessed. “Laarus, this is Oroleniel the Salmon, Watch-Mage of the Academy. He graduated a few years before me."
Laarus nodded and extended his hand to Oroleniel, "It's a pleasure to meet you."
Oroleniel gestured for the two of them to enter the well-appointed cottage. "I was about to make some tea. Would you like some?"
Inside they saw a white and gray gull hopping up and down a rafter above, squawking at them as they entered. "Oh don't mind Coleridge, he's a crotchety old bird."
The gulls squawked even more angrily as the watch-mage put a kettle on the iron stove, which he lit with a quick cantrip.
"Please. . . Please sit. . .” he told them gesturing emphatically when Laarus hesitated for the host to take a seat as well. “Don’t wait for me, I need to see to the tea, and plus I picked up some wonderful sweetbread in the market this morning. . .Let me cut us a few slices. . . Now was there something specific you wanted to consult about?"
"No, nothing specific, really. I hope we are not imposing. Though perhaps you could tell of this drug called
shannis?" Bleys sat in one of three large stuffed chairs that surrounded a low table.
The half-elf busily prepared a tray as he talked. "Shannis? I am curious why you ask of it. I know something of it. . . It is sometimes called 'Soldier's Boon' or even 'Soldier's Bane'. . . Rare and expensive, it has a numbing effect that is not dangerous in small doses. . . or so I have been led to believe. . ."
He set the tray down on the low table and asked Laarus how he'd like his tea. He remembered precisely how Bleys likes it (lemon, no honey) from the night before. The priest of Ra replied, sitting upright and folding his arms across his lap.
“Is this the same variety of tea as you served last night?” Bleys the Aubergine asked politely.
"Yes, this is pinesmoke black tea, grown on
Black Thread Island. . .Delicious!" Oroleniel smiled and patted his stomach.
"We've heard of individuals who are transporting this shannis for sale. Its trade does not seem to be viewed favorably. Though, I don't know its legality," Laarus commented.
Bleys drank deeply from the cup of hot tea, "Mmmm, pinesmoke... Do you know how the shannis is made?"
Oroleniel handed Laarus his tea and sat across from them with his own cup. The gull hopped from the rafter to the windowsill and then to the back of the watch-mage's chair.
"I am not sure how it is made,” the half-elf replied. “Except that it uses the pollen of some dangerous marsh plant and some kind of mushroom - but the process is a mystery to me. I understand it is inhaled through the nostrils."
After a few more sips of tea and a bite of sweetbread, their host continued, "As for the legality, I am surprised a priest of Ra would not be versed in such things. . . I do not think it is illegal to own it or use it yourself, but if a local watch-mage or magistrate wanted to declare it a poison, then its sale and transport in quantity would be illegal, and also any bulk amount of a crafted product, poison or not, falls under the need of peddler's license. . ..Could you share with me what this is about? Is the sale and transport of shannis what brings you to New Harbinger?"
Laarus carefully squeezed a bit of lemon into his tea, placing the rind back on the saucer. He took a slow sip, savoring the flavor. He permitted himself another sip before responding to the Oroleniel's comment. "Contraband isn't my area of expertise," he informed with a stern tone. "That is not what brings us to New Harbinger. We'd already planned on stopping here on the way to our next destination."
"I meant no disrespect, good sir. . ." Oroleniel said, a smile never leaving his lips. "I spoke out of turn, what do I know of what is taught to young priests of Ra? I spent some months in Herman Land after my graduation and before my appointment here, and there, as you know, the
church of Ra is involved in every aspect of law and the judiciary. . " He stood and offers refills.
Bleys leaned back in his chair as if to study the structural integrity of the rafters for a time before speaking. "We only happened upon our limited exposure of the shannis on our journey here, but it is not the purpose of our sojourn. There is a tribe of lizardfolk whom we know have harvested the plant pollen necessary for its creation. Specifically, I was more curious to learn what you may know about the mushrooms, or a man in the bog who sings to them?" (1) At this last sentence, Bleys leaned in a bit scrutinizing Oroleniel's face for any immediate reaction.
"A man who sings to mushrooms? Ha!" Oroleniel laughed. "I have heard of no such man, though admittedly I know next to nothing about what folks call the Crossroads Bog. . . it being relatively small and all. . ."
Bleys was unamused by the half-elf's attitude. "Well, I guess there is no accounting for local legend. My mistake…" He grew quiet, enjoying another cup of the pinesmoke black tea.
Orolieniel refused to let Bleys recede, "But why ‘a mistake’? As I said, I know next to nothing of this bog - so I cannot clarify the matter for you. . . but perhaps if you explain how you think this man is connected to the shannis trade I might at least give you a different perspective on the puzzle pieces you
do have. . . You will have to excuse my ignorance, but my expertise lies in the
Great Wanderings of the
elves and the conflicts of migrating and neighboring cultures. . ."
"Well, I only mean that I was simply mistaken to ask you. You obviously know nothing of what I was asking is all. As I already said, mushroom spores are required to make this Shannis. I was merely inquiring, thinking perhaps this 'legendary' man may know more about them,” Bleys replied flatly. "But if the shannis is not illegal, then my inquiries are unnecessary...." Bleys again found refuge in his cup.
Oroleniel the Salmon smiled and gave a forced laugh as if Bleys made a joke. "If only legal and political matters were so black and white!"
With an arcane word from their watch-mage host, an invisible figure began to clear the dishes. Coleridge the gull leapt up onto the half-elf's shoulder and was fed some bits of sweetbread. "So, what
is happening with the Shannis? Is there a local problem with it I should know about?"
"Well that depends… Is the shannis a problem? I must assume that its use is new in the area. Do you know what its effects are? Perhaps you could enlighten us, as I myself am unaware of how it works." Bleys plucked his cup from thin air, before it could escape him, not wanting to waste the final sip of the flavorful tea from the overeager
unseen servant. Oroleniel commanded it to put the cups and saucers back.
"Aside from some specific locals who became addicted, I would not say there have been any broader problems that have come to my attention regarding it." Oroleniel the Salmon got up and put on more water to boil. "As for the effects, it has a numbing effect with an associated euphoria that varies based on the strength of the dose. It also can have the side effect of rash or spontaneous actions. It is as if it can drain the very wisdom from a man. . . Overdose and withdrawal both cause wild emotional fluctuations, from what I understand - and a more severe clouding of wisdom."
"Then its use must certainly be new in the region, for the growth of something so potentially harmful to the mass populace should certainly be addressed. It is like a plague, for which the only cure is abstinence. People willingly wasting their hard-earned coin on a drug that robs them of their wits? Certainly if they are not savvy enough to protect themselves, it is our duty to do so. What are you and House Swann doing to wrest its deathgrip from the people? Perhaps we can be of some assistance?" A tinge of eagerness actually entered Bleys’ usual placid voice, as if ready to charge forth from the hut to see to the task immediately.
Oroleniel looked surprised. "You have not told me anything of what you know to lead to that conclusion. I just said there have been some isolated cases. . .. But, I think its addiction is only a problem to those who use it for a long time. Its numbing qualities can still be very useful to those who suffer from debilitating chronic illnesses that cause pain. . . So, to answer your question more directly, nothing is being done."
Bleys looked to Laarus, staring hard at him. Though he might have simply been looking through him, as he turned thoughts over in his head. Finally, he exhaled heavily. "Very well, since you are obviously confused and eager for more information, allow me to disseminate. But first, let me urge you, this is in confidence and know I give you this as a fellow Watch-Mage, believing the greater good is served by my doing so."
Ever-insightful, and sensing that Bleys was about to tell the details of Sir Quintus Gosprey’s shame, Laarus stood up, attempting to draw attention towards himself. "You've spoken much already," the priest said, looking at his wizardly companion, "Enjoy your tea. Give me the honor to share our knowledge about this shannis." Laarus gazed at Bleys for a moment, ensuring the purple-cloaked watch-mage was amenable to this arrangement.
Laarus went on to explain about Sir Quintus and his men, the brigands/smugglers, how Sir Quintus worked alongside the lizardfolk to get the components of shannis and provide it to the brigands/smugglers, in hopes of uncovering the criminal elements behind the drug ring. He mentioned the names Sir Quintus supplied them with (MacHaven and Connduel), in hopes they might be familiar to Oroleniel. The priest paced a small area of the room while he spoke, looking towards the floor at times, and others at Orolenial. He left out Sir Quintus' addiction and the deal with the lizardmen to speak with young lord Swann. He did briefly mention, however, that the lizardfolk had helped Sir Quintus in hopes of building some form of alliance with House Swann.
"So, you see,” Laarus concluded. “Though they've not seen fit to get it legally ruled a poison, House Swann does seem concerned with stopping those transporting and selling it."
There was a long quiet moment before Oroleniel said, "Sir Quintus? Is he not Sir Quorland of Gullmoor's son? He earned his knighthood at the
Battle of the Burning Rift by leaping over a wall of flame to kill the opposing force's priestly leader. It is said he suffered some terrible wounds in the process. . ." The watch-mage was quiet for a long time again, considering the tale he had been told, before speaking again. "Do you know if Lord Gosprey of Gullmoor has sought the aid of Lord Swann? Or is it perhaps a more localized issue? I would take your recruitment to their aid to mean that he has not. . However, this is not a surprise to me considering the delicate political situation in House Swann right now. . ."
"I do not know of such aid being sought, and I do not feel our recruitment sheds any light on it. It was Sir Quintus' supposed disappearance we were asked to look into. Though, I sensed his men didn't know how involved he was in the plan to capture these shannis smugglers," Laarus of Ra replied. "Our talk now is of our own choice. We've not been asked for any other aid by Sir Quintus or House Swann in the matter."
"And yet you continue to look into the matter, so you must feel there is more to it, or that it goes deeper and poses some danger. . . I have not heard of this MacHaven or the other name. . . But there are many that smuggle goods from the
Glogrichio and beyond. . .
Cwell the Hawk would be the one to ask." Oroleniel the Salmon looked to Bleys as he said the name of the watch-mage of Tribunisport. "As for the lizardfolk's desires… Well, it is not that I know of anything specific about Lord Swann’s feelings about the lizard people, but the fact that his most favored knight is sometimes called '
the Lizardbane' may reveal something about that house's attitude in general. . . "
“I can only hope that the new Lord Swann's eagerness of youth does not cloud his judgment from making a decision that is best for his people," Bleys said, standing. "Perhaps there are more than a few answers in Tribunisport." Almost absentmindedly, he broke the remaining pieces of his sweetbread into small bits and threw them down to Coleridge, who was looking for crumbs and squawking occasionally.
"I am curious, have you any theories about Barakis the Bold's untimely demise?" Bleys changed the subject as he sat back down.
Oroleniel the Salmon let out a long low breath and then stood. Coleridge hopped down onto the watch-mage's shoulder, as the latter walked over to the window. Oroleniel took the bird from his shoulder and held him up and out towards the window, standing near motionless for a full minute, before the familiar flew off.
"The only people who really know aren't talking, and it really is not my place to ask, unless I happen upon more information that can lead in some direction or another…” Oroleniel the Salmon finally replied, as he turned around. “My own limited inquires have been exhausted…"
"Is that all?” Laarus asked with sudden intensity. “I feel you might know more. If you'd share, I'm sure the weight you're feeling would be lessened." (2)
"Weight? Feeling? Whatever do you mean?"
Laarus stood and placed his cup down on its saucer. He looked towards Bleys. "Leave me with Orolenial for a moment."
"Hmmm....." Bleys looked to Oroleniel for a response. "You have me at a disadvantage… Did I miss something?"
"I must have missed it as well," Oroleniel replied, frowning and then looking to Laarus. "I am at a loss for what you are implying. . ."
Laarus walked over to the window where Orolenial was standing, putting his back to Bleys. He clasped his hands in front of him and fixed his eyes on the half-elf's. "There is more you aren't saying. I see it bothers you. You're nervous about sharing with Bleys. So, speak to me," he said quietly. Being closer the half-elf's height, Laarus bowed his head slightly and turned his ear to the watch-mage, giving him the opportunity to speak more privately.
Oroleniel the Salmon stepped away from Laarus as if startled. He sighed and his shoulders sagged. "I mean no disrespect, but there is no way I can express what are unsubstantiated opinions without giving insult. . . It is not that I am trying to be unhelpful. . ."
"This that weighs on your heart appears too heavy to be unsubstantiated opinions. I feel you yet have more you can say,” Laarus insisted. “More that can lead to the truth and bring justice to the guilty. You are not disrespecting me. Your silence insults your late fellow watch-mage."
Laarus maintained eye contact for a long moment, and then turns and walked back to his seat, making eye contact with Bleys along the way and giving him a short nod.
"It is not you I would insult. . ." Oroleniel said with a sigh. "As I have said before those who
know are not talking, so who am I who was not there, and not having any special knowledge or evidence to speak against someone else? Down that path lies rumor and injustice, and I will not be origin, or part of, that. . ."
"Very well, I respect your position. Perhaps we have imposed too long," Bleys stood and made for the door. Turning with raised eyebrow, he added: "But one last thing, can you tell us who it is that you think
knows?"
"Ask your former master…" The half-elf said, looking down. He took a deep breath and then his demeanor became gregarious again as he showed them to the door. "But if there is anything else I can help you with you while you are here, let me know. This last exchange has soured your visit some, which is the last thing I desired. . . and so, would like a chance to make it up to you. . ."
Laarus shook the watch-mage's hand, "You've been most hospitable. May Ra's light shine on you and light you the way."
"We are not soured, Oroleniel the Salmon. We are only seeking answers. It is commendable that you wish not to sully the reputations of others by propagating half-truths, speculations, and rumors. We will speak again, I hope sooner rather than later. I should enjoy some more of that pinesmoke," Bleys shook his fellow watch-mage’s hand and turned to walk away with the priest without a backward glance.
As the Bleys the Aubergine and Laarus of Ra strolled back, the priest seemed lost in thought, and no words passed between then until they had nearly reached the citadel.
"Who is your former master?" Laarus asked.
Bleys kept a steady pace, without breaking stride, he replied flatly, "Sir Abberd the Argent, of
House Schemerhorn. Uncle to the
Margrave,” Bleys said, not looking at his companion, or slowing his pace. “I resided in the
Golden Tower of the West for nearly three years before entering the Academy of Wizardry. In Sluetelot, Darbold told me it was Sir Abberd who had been sent to investigate the matter of Barakis' death. I saw no further need for inquiry."
"You saw need to inquire of Orolenial. Something still bothers you about the matter?" Laarus asked.
"Well, it is a mystery. I was merely inquisitive is all… I thought perhaps if some knowledge was to be shared a fellow watch-mage would have more than that slovenly backwater bard,” (3) Bleys allowed himself a rare sigh. “Apparently I was wrong. If there have been answers found they must not have been made public to the rest of we alumni."
There was another long silence before the watch-mage continued. "And I wish you had not brow-beaten Oroleniel, I fear it reflects poorly on me. We were guests in his home. He is lonely is all, and eager for company, otherwise I'm sure we may have both received a tongue-lashing from a graduate more senior.
Cwell the Carmine, for example."
"His lies reflect poorly on
him. He knows something more than his personal opinion. Your broaching the subject made him very nervous. Why would he feel that, if he knows nothing? He was hiding something,” Laarus insisted. His brow furrowed as continued. "I'm beginning to sense the truth is not wanted to be found. Tell me, do you know what Barakis had accomplished while serving as watch-mage, or what he hoped to?"
"Again you have me at the disadvantage. Either you have had a revelation from Ra or you are vastly superior to myself when it comes to reading the subtle nuances of body language and tone of voice. I wondered how it is you knew he was lying, but I do not doubt your divinations. I agree the truth must be serving some other purpose, perhaps protecting someone or something. An agenda?" Bleys paused, while musing, before continuing. He stopped walking. "I suspect Oroleniel was nervous that we, an Academy Mage and a Priest of Ra showed up at his door making inquiries. He may have suspected that we had indeed suspected him of some involvement. But, I do not think he is the type to harbor secrets."
The taller man resumed the pace back toward the Citadel, "As to Barakis, he was, as you may have gathered, best known for his carousing, drinking, brawling. He had no real enemies or agenda of his own that I know of… Perhaps he was merely a target of circumstance or an unwitting pawn in someone's game. As of now, I am content to keep my ears open, as it is not my place to make any official inquiries, especially at the risk of offending my mentor. I'm sure you understand."
Laarus nodded. "I understand the delicacy of politics. I understand when I can speak freely and when I must hold my tongue. It may not be your place to make inquiries but as a shining servant of Ra, it is
my place to seek the truth, ensure His laws are upheld, and mete out His justice. My gut makes me feel there's something else."
"I guess mine does too then, eh?” Bleys frowned. “Why else would I still be asking about it?" Bleys receded into his thoughts as the duo reached the Citadel.
Laarus' lips stretched into a brief smile at Bleys' comment, but the walk concluded in silence, the watch-mage considering another visit to his fellow alumnus later in the afternoon. Alone.
End of InterSession #4.2
-------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
(1) Tavius made an off-hand remark regarding the hermit that sings to mushrooms in Session #3.
(2) Laarus of Ra made a sense motive check to determine that Oroleniel the Salmon seemed to be holding something back in Bleys’ presence.
(3) This is a reference to
Darbold the Gay.
